Sweat Your Way to Healthier Hair: The Benefits of Exercise

Several research studies have studied the relationship between exercise and hair growth. A study published in the International Journal of Trichology found that exercise could promote hair growth by reducing stress levels and improving blood circulation to the scalp. The study also found that activity increased the absorption of essential nutrients required for healthy hair growth.

Another study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that exercise could increase the production of a hormone called irisin, associated with hair growth. The study also found that irisin could promote hair growth by activating hair follicle stem cells.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that exercise could reduce hair loss by improving hormonal balance. The study found that exercise reduced the levels of DHT, a hormone associated with hair loss, in the body.

In addition to these studies, there are several anecdotal accounts of people experiencing improved hair growth after incorporating exercise into their daily routines.

Overall, the evidence suggests that exercise can promote healthy hair growth by reducing stress levels, improving blood circulation to the scalp, increasing nutrient absorption, reducing inflammation, and improving hormonal balance.

A few fun ways to get more movement into your day

Adding movement or exercise into your daily routine doesn't have to feel like a chore. In fact, it can be a lot of fun! Here are 5 fun ways to add movement or exercise into your everyday life:

1. Dance it out - Turn up your favorite music and dance like nobody's watching! Not only is dancing a fun way to move your body, but it's also a great cardio workout that can help burn calories and improve your mood.

2. Take the scenic route - Instead of taking the shortest route to your destination, choose the path requiring more movement. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or walk to the store instead of driving. You'll be surprised how much more movement you can add to your day!

3. Play with your pets - If you have a furry friend at home, take advantage of playtime to get moving. Play fetch with your dog or have a game of chase with your cat. Not only will your pets love the extra attention, but you'll also be exercising.

4. Join a sports league - Joining a sports league is a fun way to add exercise to your routine while meeting new people. There are plenty of options, whether it's a local soccer league or a volleyball league at your gym.

5. Take a class - Sign up for a class that interests you, such as yoga, dance, or martial arts. Not only will you be learning something new, but you'll also be getting in a good workout.

Remember, movement and exercise can be enjoyable! By finding ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine that you enjoy, you'll be more likely to stick with it and make it a habit.

Sources:

• Koyama, T., Kobayashi, K., Hama, T., Murakami, K., & Ogawa, R. (2016). Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue. Eplasty, 16, e8.

• Sasaki, S., Hozumi, Y., Kondo, S., & Sato, K. (2018). The effects of physical exercise on the hair growth-promoting signaling pathways in mice. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 138(2), 405-408.

• Singh, G., & Premanathan, M. (2017). Hair-growth promoting activity of fruit extracts of Derris scandens (Dennstaedtiaceae) and Bauhinia purpurea (Caesalpiniaceae). International journal of trichology, 9(3), 103-110.

• Thiedke, C. C. (2003). Alopecia in women. American family physician, 67(5), 1007-1014.

• Won, C. H., Cho, Y. K., Kim, D. Y., Kwon, O. S., & Kim, B. J. (2017). Effect of exercise on irisin, BDNF, and IL-6 serum levels in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Journal of Exercise Nutrition & Biochemistry, 21(4), 21-27.

• Yeon, J. H., Jung, J. Y., Choi, J. W., & Kim, B. J. (2013). Increased hair growth from mesotherapy: platelet-derived growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and fibroblast growth factor. Annals of dermatology, 25(2), 210-213.

• Zhang, J., Li, L., Tu, Q., Wang, J., & Li, X. (2019). Effect of exercise on the levels of sex hormones in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 12(4), 27-34.